AT COP30 in Belém, the Gateway to the Amazon, nations convened at a defining moment for global climate ambition, equity and resilience. For Bangladesh, one of the world’s most climate-vulnerable nations, the summit was far more than a global convergence of climate negotiators; it was a platform to advocate for survival, dignity and climate justice. Confronted daily by rising seas, intensifying cyclones, river erosion, salinity intrusion, drought and climate-driven displacement, Bangladesh used COP30 to highlight the urgent need for global solidarity, decisive action and reliable support for the vulnerable nations, those most at risk.
Core expectations for Bangladesh
BANGLADESH approached COP30 with a clear and principled agenda rooted in justice, survival, and equitable climate action.
Climate finance: Bangladesh called for a new, ambitious finance goal that is predictable, needs-driven and inclusive of adaptation, resilience and loss and damage. The outdated $100 billion pledge is insufficient for the growing needs of vulnerable countries.
Global mitigation: The country urged major emitters to commit to deeper, time-bound emission reductions, accelerate renewable energy deployment and adopt credible pathways for a phased and just fossil fuel transition. Without decisive mitigation, adaptation costs will escalate dramatically.
Loss and damage fund: Bangladesh emphasised immediate capitalisation, simplified access for vulnerable nations, and governance structures reflecting equity and urgency.
Global goal on adaptation: As a deltaic nation, Bangladesh called for measurable targets, timelines and financing aligned with national adaptation strategies. Adaptation is a necessity for securing lives, livelihoods and ecosystems.
Just transition mechanism: Bangladesh advocated for ensuring that the global shift towards low-carbon economies remains fair, inclusive and development-compatible, supporting workers, communities and sectors in developing countries.
While challenges persist, COP30 delivered following notable outcomes for Bangladesh.
Enhanced adaptation framework: The reinforced global goal on adaptation now provides clearer metrics for assessing adaptation needs, enabling Bangladesh to attract investment for climate-resilient agriculture, coastal protection, nature-based solutions and disaster risk reduction.
Advancements on loss and damage: New pledges, expanded capitalisation pathways, and stronger political backing improved prospects for accessing support for climate-induced losses, livelihood disruptions and displacement.
Recognition of vulnerable nations: COP30 reaffirmed the particular risks faced by low-lying deltas and climate hotspots, strengthening Bangladesh’s leverage in negotiations and financing frameworks.
Just transition mechanism: Inclusion in COP30 outcomes marked a diplomatic achievement, ensuring equity and fairness remain central to the low-emission transition and opening opportunities for renewable energy, technology transfer, green jobs and economic diversification.
Support for early warning systems: Partners recognised Bangladesh’s pioneering role in multi-hazard early warning, committing to strengthen last-mile delivery, digital forecasting and climate-smart risk communication.
Major challenges ahead
Ambition and clarity of finance goal: Without large-scale, predictable funding, adaptation gaps and economic pressures in vulnerable countries will continue to widen.
Fossil fuel phase-out: Outcome texts lacked strong timelines and accountability mechanisms, leaving countries exposed to rising emissions.
Climate-induced displacement: Millions risk losing homes, land, and livelihoods, yet international recognition and structured support remain inadequate.
Complex funding procedures: Slow and bureaucratic processes continue to hinder timely climate action; streamlined, country-led access is essential.
Way forward
BANGLADESH’S next steps focus on strategic continuity, domestic preparedness and global engagement.
Diplomatic leadership: Strengthen Bangladesh’s voice in international climate diplomacy, ensuring that the perspectives of vulnerable nations guide global decisions.
Accelerate adaptation: Expand climate-resilient agriculture, coastal embankments, mangrove restoration, improved water management and climate-resilient infrastructure in line with the enhanced global goal on adaptation framework.
Efficient finance utilisation: Strengthen inter-ministerial coordination, data systems and national processes to unlock international resources efficiently.
Leverage just transition mechanism: Pursue technology partnerships, renewable energy investments, and green skills development to ensure inclusive benefits for communities and workers.
Advocate on climate displacement: To keep migration, land loss, and related risks central to international climate agendas, ensuring timely and effective support.
COP30 reaffirmed Bangladesh’s commitment to resilience, climate justice and sustainable development. By translating principled advocacy into practical strategies, Bangladesh continues to lead on behalf of vulnerable nations. Moving forward, sustained diplomacy, strengthened domestic systems and strategic international engagement will enable Bangladesh to safeguard communities, advance sustainable development and contribute to a climate-resilient, low-carbon and equitable future for all.
Mohammad Navid Safiullah is additional secretary (climate change) at ministry of environment, forest and climate change.
